Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Gaiospino comes solely from the Spescia vineyard at Cupramontana, on the hillside opposite the winery. The steep, northwest-facing site lies at 350 m above sea level and occupies a former gypsum quarry. Its calcareous marl contains substantial calcium carbonate mixed with clay, giving the ground both cohesion and friability. Two hectares were planted in 1975 and one hectare in 1991.
The soil has not been cultivated since 1988. Spontaneous ground cover is retained, under-row management is manual, and the vines are manually trained and pruned to single and double Guyot.
Grapes
Verdicchio; the percentage is not specified.
Vinification
Carefully selected grapes are harvested at suitable ripeness, gently crushed and pressed, and the free-run must undergoes static settling. Fermentation is spontaneous with indigenous yeasts and gentle temperature control. Depending on the vintage, a small portion may ferment in wood.
Ageing
The wine remains on its fine lees for more than a year in stainless steel, vitrified concrete and 500 L French-oak vessels, with minimal racking. Although every component comes from the same vineyard, the proportion of oak-aged wine is selected by tasting. It ordinarily ranges from approximately 5% to 20%, depending on the vintage, and may be omitted entirely—as in 2016—to preserve fruit purity.
Tasting profile
Mineral and ethereal aromas open onto lightly smoky spice and fresh fruit, maintaining an austere, elegant profile. The palate enters with energy and agility, carrying refined fruit and spice. A saline, persistent finish fades into an intriguing herbal close. The wine balances body with agility and has marked substance and exuberance.
Serving and pairing
Highly versatile: particularly successful with fish, yet sufficiently structured for white and even red meats. Ageing potential is 10 years and beyond. Available in 750 ml, 1.5 L and 3 L formats.
Label / history
The label archive spans 2006, 2003, 2002, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1994, 1993, 1992 and 1991. A 1989 label records the wine under its former Vigna Gaia name.
Awards
The 2007 and 2006 vintages received A.I.S. 5 Grappoli in 2011 and 2009 respectively. The 2003 vintage received Tre Bicchieri from Gambero Rosso / Slow Food Editore in 2006, while the 2002 vintage earned A.I.S. Duemilavini's 5 Grappoli in 2005.
